7th.

The Palladian band,1 have begun to exercise, and Captain Vose, feels quite important. I do not know, that
I ever saw a man more gratified, with a distinction, of so little Importance. But
ambition has almost always a trifle for its aim, and rattle for rattle, I do not see
why this should not be as good as any other. I have not join'd this Company, because
I fear there will be such disputes, and disorders, arising from it, as will make it
disagreeable, if not wholly abolish it in a short Time: another Reason is, that it
will employ more time, than I should wish to spend in mere amusement.

1. That is, the Marti-Mercurian Band. Palladian, a reference to Pallas Athena, goddess
of war and wisdom and guardian of cities, is probably JQA's own characterization of this college-based military company.